Lab Technician

Job Title: Quality Control Laboratory TechnicianJob Description

The Quality Control Laboratory Technician performs a wide range of chemical, physical, and instrumental tests on raw materials, in-process samples, finished products, and customer samples to ensure they meet established quality standards. This role follows and validates analytical methods, manages laboratory data in electronic systems, and supports cross-functional teams by providing accurate, timely test results. The technician works hands-on in a laboratory environment, upholds strict safety and documentation practices, and contributes to continuous improvement of testing processes and product quality.

Responsibilities

• Perform chemical, physical, and instrumental testing on raw materials, in-process, finished, and customer product samples, including volumetric and gravimetric analyses, pH measurements, FTIR, specific gravity (SPG), refractive index (RI), and other instrumental techniques.

• Conduct functional tests such as IACS and thermal conductivity measurements as needed to support product and process evaluations.

• Follow written analytical procedures and standard operating procedures to ensure consistency, accuracy, and compliance with quality requirements.

• Validate established analytical methods and assist in troubleshooting testing procedures to improve reliability and ensure product quality.

• Collect, enter, review, and validate test data in WinLIMS or similar laboratory information management systems, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

• Perform calculations, interpret test results, and submit findings for review and approval in accordance with established workflows.

• Communicate sample status, test progress, and final results clearly and promptly to Quality, Production, and R&D teams.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date laboratory documentation, including SOPs, test methods, protocols, deviations, batch records, and Certificates of Analysis (COAs).

• Handle hazardous materials safely, including proper labeling, storage, and disposal, in compliance with site safety and chemical hygiene protocols.

• Adhere to all laboratory safety procedures and participate in maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work area.

• Troubleshoot basic process and testing issues, identify potential root causes, and escalate concerns appropriately when additional support is needed.

• Support continuous improvement efforts by suggesting enhancements to methods, processes, and documentation to improve efficiency and quality.

• Collaborate effectively with team members, share knowledge, and contribute to a positive, cooperative laboratory environment.

• Manage time effectively to prioritize multiple samples and tasks while meeting testing deadlines and production schedules.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.

• Experience in quality control, analytical testing, or laboratory work, including exposure to materials testing or metals, academic or industry-based.

• Hands-on experience performing chemical and physical testing, such as volumetric and gravimetric analyses, pH measurement, FTIR, specific gravity (SPG), and refractive index (RI).

• Ability to follow written analytical procedures, standard operating procedures, and test methods accurately.

• Basic proficiency with computer applications, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, with the ability to log and track process data.

• Ability to collect, enter, and review data in laboratory information management systems such as WinLIMS or similar tools.

• Strong attention to detail with a focus on process control, documentation accuracy, and maintaining high quality standards.

• Effective communication skills to convey sample status and test results to Quality, Production, and R&D teams.

• Ability to work productively in a team environment, follow instructions, and collaborate with colleagues.

• Good time management skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple assignments.

• Commitment to safe handling of hazardous materials and adherence to safety and chemical hygiene protocols.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Materials testing background and experience working with metals are highly beneficial.

• Quality control experience in an industrial or laboratory setting is an advantage.

• Familiarity with statistical analysis software such as Minitab is a plus.

• Experience validating analytical methods and troubleshooting testing procedures is desirable.

• Demonstrated ability to maintain comprehensive laboratory documentation, including SOPs, test methods, protocols, deviations, batch records, and COAs.

• Strong problem-solving mindset with the ability to identify and escalate process issues appropriately.

• Demonstrated reliability, accountability, and consistency in meeting quality and documentation expectations.

Work Environment

The role is based in a laboratory environment that focuses on quality control and analytical testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products. The technician works with a variety of analytical instruments and techniques, including FTIR, pH meters, volumetric and gravimetric equipment, and tools for specific gravity (SPG), refractive index (RI), IACS, and thermal conductivity measurements. Work involves regular use of computer systems, including Microsoft Office applications and laboratory information management systems such as WinLIMS, to log, analyze, and report data. The environment requires careful handling of hazardous materials, adherence to site safety procedures, and compliance with chemical hygiene protocols. The role involves close collaboration with Quality, Production, and R&D teams in a structured, process-driven setting that emphasizes accuracy, documentation, and continuous improvement.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of San Jose, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $34.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in San Jose,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 30, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.